How to Dive Safely in Gili Tepekong

This dive site, located in Bali, is known as the “the toilet” because of the swirling downdraft currents that occur in the area, especially in south-western parts, commonly known as the Canyon. Gili Tekepong’s strong currents earned it a reputation as Bali’s most dangerous dive site!

These currents are so strong that instead of floating up naturally, the currents drag you, spiraling down, into the Lombok Strait depths.

Besides these intimidating factors, the area offers some fantastic diving once you get through the current. However, don’t expect soft corals on the southern edge and the drop-off area, as the flow of the currents are just too strong for corals to develop.

What you will find, however, is the defining power of the Indonesian Throughflow that flows through the Lombok Strait and around the magnificent underwater rock structure. You’ll see schools of fish passing by as they feed on rich waters, but diving here with a guide is a must. To see if its safe or not, make sure your guide is someone you really trust and who has a good sense in determining the complexity of the surface patterns.

The best and most intense part of Gili Tepekong is undoubtedly in the Canyon, located on the south-western tip. It’s a must dive location, mainly for the schools of sweetlips, jacks and groupers. Even white tip reef sharks can be found here. Note that if there’s any sign of breaking water on the southwest tip, then the dangerous “toilet effect” will potentially occur in the downdrafts. When Gili Tepekong’s currents are too strong for diving, there’s always the more sheltered northwest tip, or nearby Gili Mimpang, for a more relaxed current, but still with good dives.

Ready to go for the most challenging dive in Bali? Then contact Alpha World Diving for a day trip package to Gili Tepekong dive spots, for an experience you will surely never forget!